Resale Markets: Why Secondhand is the New First Choice

Welcome to the world of resale markets, where the old adage "out with the old, in with the new" is being transformed into a mantra of conscious consumerism.

Once associated with thrift stores and bargain hunting, secondhand shopping has transformed into an industry that big-name brands and retailers have entered, providing chic, convenient, and eco-conscious products to life-long consumers. And the numbers speak for themselves — the global secondhand apparel market is projected to soar to $350 billion by 2027, nearly doubling its value from $177 billion in 2022.

What’s driving this growth? From consumers’ increasing focus on sustainability to a desire for unique, affordable pieces, the resale market is perfectly positioned at the intersection of value, variety, and virtue.

With this in mind, let’s take a look at a few fashion brands and retailers that have implemented resale markets of their own to promote sustainability and drive the circular economy, making their mark on the runway and in the realm of responsible consumerism. 

1. REI

In the world of outdoor retail, REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.) has long been a revered name, known for its commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability. One of the standout ways in which REI promotes sustainability and contributes to the circular economy is through its resale market.

REI's resale initiative is aptly named the "REI Used Gear" platform. This marketplace allows customers to buy and sell gently used outdoor gear and clothing. Whether it's a backpack, a pair of hiking boots, or a jacket, this platform provides outdoor enthusiasts with a sustainable alternative to purchasing brand-new items. 

The resale market aligns with REI's philosophy of extending the lifespan of products. By encouraging customers to buy and sell used gear, they reduce the need for new production and promote a culture of reusing and recycling, not only minimizing waste but also conserving the natural resources required for manufacturing.

2. ASKET

Swedish brand Asket has built its business model on genuine sustainability and transparency. Founded in 2015, Asket rejects the traditional fast fashion calendar; instead of churning out seasonal collections, it offers a single, permanent collection of timeless, essential garments, minimizing waste and encouraging consumers to purchase high-quality, long-lasting clothing.

By calculating carbon emissions for their core products and expanding this analysis across their entire collection, ASKET meticulously evaluates the environmental impact at each stage of a product’s lifecycle, including raw material extraction, processing, production, assembly, distribution, and end-of-life outcomes. This data-driven approach allows ASKET to make precise adjustments during the design phase, such as substituting or eliminating components with an outsized environmental footprint, and empowers ASKET customers to make informed, sustainable choices.

The company actively reduces waste through initiatives like the Asket ReStore, an in-person resale and repair outlet that refurbishes and sells previously owned Asket garments, ensuring that clothing stays in circulation and avoids landfills or incineration.

But what truly sets Asket apart is its radical transparency. For every garment, Asket provides detailed disclosures about its supply chain, environmental footprint, and cost structure. Consumers can access information on the factories and facilities involved in production, including details about average wages, working conditions, and shift lengths. By shedding light on these often-hidden aspects of the fashion industry, Asket fosters accountability and empowers consumers to make informed choices.

Asket’s philosophy, “The Pursuit of Less,” reflects a holistic approach to sustainability. By focusing on longevity, reducing resource extraction, and emphasizing the value of human labor, Asket demonstrates what genuine, impactful sustainability looks like in the fashion industry.